Senate bill gives more money to schools

JACKSON — Mississippi lawmakers are preparing for final budget negotiations, and a majority of senators say education should be a priority.

A Democratic-sponsored amendment that passed 31-19 today would put about $30 million more into elementary and secondary schools than Senate leaders originally proposed.

The Republican chairman of the Appropriations Committee, Alan Nunnelee, says senators need to cut $30 million from other programs.

Small groups from the House and Senate will negotiate in the next couple of weeks on final spending plans for the fiscal year that begins July 1.